Somerset County League: Chard Town 1-3 Stockwood Wanderers

A fortnight ago we played Stockwood Wanderers away and the score was 5-5, would this be a similar scoreline?

After a minute's silence to remember Colin Dunford the game got underway with Chard playing down the slope.

Against a strong physical side it was tough for our young side but Chard played some good football and chances were created at both ends.

Unfortunately for Chard a corner from the left on 15 minutes was perfect for the Stockwood Wanderers attacker and his bullet header hit the back of the net.

This stirred Chard up but it wasn't until the 37th minute a ball over the top was met by Conor Fielder, despite being brought down he was quickest back up and scored with a cool finish into the bottom corner. 1-1 at half time was a fair result for the first half.

There was a blow for Chard when Captain Manley had to be replaced by Will Board and Olly Board took his position as centre back.

Playing up the slope on a heavy pitch wasn't going to be easy but Chard started the second half with great enthusiasm and created plenty of chances but were unable to get the second goal.

Cruz Baker who had a great game at left back was replaced by Callum Lacey on 70 minutes.

Five minutes later a great jinking run by Conor Fielder turned the defender inside out and was brought down in the area. Everyone in Zembard Lane could see it was a penalty, but not given.

A minute later Stockwood Wanderers attacked and scored. Football can be so cruel.

Again Chard replied with some great play, With 15 minutes left, Conor Fielder was replaced by Charlie Male.

As Chard pushed forward to get the equaliser Stockwood Wanderers attacked down the slope. Olly Board was fouled on the edge of the area and again no free kick was given and Stockwood Wanderers scored their third of the afternoon.

Full Time at Zembard Lane 1-3. A spokesman for the club said: "Losing a game is hard to accept, but every single Chard player gave everything but Stockwood Wanderers were a lot stronger and took their chances."

No game next week, Chard's next match is at home v Wells City Reserves on the 14th of December.